Rumors and Shadows
While all of this was unfolding beyond the city walls, a different kind of battle had already begun inside Fantom City's Knight Academy.
Not a battle of swords.
A battle of whispers.
And the man who started it stood at the center of a small group of noble students, his lips curled in a smug smile.
Albion Saulon.
The young noble leaned casually against the marble railing of the academy courtyard, his expensive coat draped neatly across his shoulders. His eyes glimmered with quiet satisfaction as the rumors he planted began spreading through the academy like wildfire.
He raised his voice slightly so the nobles around him could hear.
"I'm telling you, that's the truth."
One of the young nobles frowned.
"You're saying the reason Videl is that strong… is because of her weapon?"
Albion nodded slowly.
"Yes."
His smile sharpened.
"That sword she carries."
"It's not ordinary."
Several students leaned closer, curiosity flashing across their faces.
